St. Louis Blues defenseman Scott Perunovich needs shoulder surgery, out at least six months

St. Louis Blues president of hockey operations and general manager Doug Armstrong announced Tuesday that defenseman Scott Perunovich would need to undergo shoulder surgery to repair a fractured left shoulder that he suffered Sept. 27 against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Perunovich was selected 45th overall by the Blues in the 2018 NHL Draft. After a successful NCAA campaign with the University of Minnesota-Duluth, he transitioned to the NHL. He made his debut on Nov. 18 last season against the San Jose Sharks and he collected his first NHL assist. Perunovich played a total of 19 games, registering six points.

Blues’ Head Coach Craig Berube was questioned about Perunovich’s status following the injury against the Blackhawks. “You feel bad for him,” Berube said. “He’s had a tough go with injuries. He worked hard all summer and was ready to come in and prove himself. It’s an unfortunate thing.”

The 24-year-old suffered a torn left labrum that kept him sidelined for most of the season last year. However, after successful surgery and recovery, he was able to return for the Blues’ playoff run, collecting four assists in seven games. Perunovich, a talented puck-moving defenseman, has impressed big time in his short stints with the Blues. Upon his return, he’ll still have a chance to crack their regular lineup.